Deepika was apprehensive about ‘Mohe Rang Do’

Dancer Birju Maharaj, who choreographed Deepika Padukone’s solo dance for the song Mohe Rang Do Laal in Bajirao Mastani, says the actress was initially worried about performing the song.

“I met Deepika in Delhi before the final shoot in Mumbai. That time I taught her some basic mudras [gestures] of Kathak [an Indian dance form]. Deepika told me that she was worried about the dance number as she was not Madhuri [Dixit]. I told her not to worry and she worked really hard to get the steps right,” Maharaj, 77, said.

The elaborate dance, set against the backdrop of a fort, has Padukone performing to express her love for Bajirao (played by Ranveer Singh).

“I am very happy with the way the piece shaped up. Had it been a fast footwork movement piece then there would have been a problem. But Deepika still managed to bring out a small, fast-paced piece brilliantly. She was not scared and did it beautifully,” he added.

Maharaj watched the actress’ earlier film in preparation to teach her.

“I had gone to watch Happy New Year only with one motive that I have to see how Deepika dances as I have to choreograph her next. I believe Deepika does brilliant acting but she should do more classical dance so that she can improve her dancing skills,” he said.

Asked why he does not choreograph much for Bollywood, the dancer said, “I am not comfortable with every song. For me, dance is like connecting with the almighty. I cannot choreograph something which is raunchy and demands loads of skin show. I know these are important for a film but I prefer to stay away from it.”

The Kathak dancer credited the movie’s director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, with whom he collaborated in Devdas, for shooting the songs aesthetically.

“He knows what suits [the songs]. He is a trained Odissi dancer. We share a strong bond since Devdas. Our viewpoints match and that helps to bring out the best in both of us,” Maharaj said.